Equestria

3 MONTHS LATER

It has been a very, interesting, 3 months for our group heroes, especially for Spike.

Since Rarity joined the party, Spike was needed less and less, so he had distanced himself from the group when they went on quests.

Spike had decided to start only doing odd jobs and bounty hunts.

Apart from this, the only fun things that were happening were Rainbow Dash and Rarity comical competitions to win Spike’s attention.

Well, It was comical for everyone in the guild, but for the other members of the group, it was just plain creepy or annoying, and the tension was starting to get to the group.

As for Spike, it was just plain stupid, to add insult to injury, he was yet to realize the true meaning behind their actions.

Every day, Rainbow Dash does her best to invite Spike out for an early workout, or for a quick Duo quest, or even to go to a sports game or concert, and then we have Rarity, her approach was… different, yet terrifying… somehow, she was literally the first person Spike saw every morning, not because she had found a way into his room and started to sleep in his bed.

But because, every morning she would face call him to wish him a good morning, she even got to the point of being in suggestive outfits and positions when she did, yet Spike would only answer politely and hang up, then she would follow him around, asking him to help her in her boutique or to help her go shopping, once she even asked him to model for her, and for her safety, he said no.

Well let’s get back to the present, shall we?

“Remind me again why I’m here?’ asked Spike

“Because, Darling, it’s a Gentledrake’s duty to help a fair maiden out when she asks him,” said Rarity

“Fair point,” said Spike who was holding so many bags and boxes you could think he was a mountain of trash

“It feels like if we’re a real couple, who’s out on a date,” said Rarity

“Huh, is that you Spike?” said a deep bass voice with a southern accent

“The one and only, Spike Drake, Pack Mule extraordinaire, at your service,” said Spike

“HEYYYY!” said a familiar voice

“Sorry Cranky,” said Spike as he saw Cranky and his wife Matilda and his Children walked by

“Again Spike, please never again,” said Cranky angrily

“He really needs to come down,” said Rarity

“Well, how would you feel if you were in his position?” said Spike

“I guess you’re right,” said Rarity

“So, What’s up my dude?” said Spike

“Just on my way to the guild to place a quest request… well 2 actually,” said Big Mac

“I see, well, we were on our way there, so… want us to tag along?” said Rarity

“Sure… need help?” asked Big Mac when he saw all the things Spike was carrying

“Nah, Rarity’s car is over there,” said Spike as he walked towards it

MINUTES LATER

“So, you need someone to go to High Peak mountain and bring back some type of rock?” asked Rainbow Dash

“I believe the name you’re looking for is Drutain, and just like Adamantium it’s basically indestructible, and it’s worth a fortune,” said Big Mac

“I didn’t know you were in the mining business, that’s new,” said Spike

“I’m not, Granny Smith found an old map, that belonged to her father, as you know Spike, he was a miner and he was also the one who discovered the rock, hence the massive aspect of our fortune,” said Big Mac

“So?” asked Spike

“Granny Smith, sent me to the guild to hire bodyguards to protect my mom, dad, and some workers while they check it out, you know, go with them, cover their backs, help them carry the rocks if you find any, things like that,” said Big Mac

“And the other request?” asked Twilight

“That’s more of a personal request for Spike,” said Big Mac as he turned to face Spike

“You mind coming down to Sweet Apple acres to help with the farming, again,” said Big Mac

“Ok,” said Spike

“Wait, YOU HAVE HELPED THEM BEFORE?!!!” they all asked

“Yeah, many times to be honest,” said Spike

“WHEN?!” they asked Again

“Over the last couple of months… so how long is this gonna take?” asked Spike

“For about 2 weeks maybe more, is that ok with you?” asked Big Mac

“It’s fine with me,” said Spike

“Oh, by the way, maybe you girls are interested in taking this quest, I mean, the reward is $600,000, that means $100,000 for each,” said Big Mac

As soon as he said that, their eyes literally turned into dollar signs

“You can count on us,” said Rainbow Dash as she grabbed the request and went to give it to Listy

“And, how much will Spike be earning?” asked Twilight

“Around $250,000,” said Big Mac

The mention of this made everyone’s jaws drop and hit the floor

“What?” asked Big Mac

“Dude, that’s the normal earning for an A rank quest,” said Spike

“Man, keeping up with AJ, is an A rank quest,” said Big Mac

“True,” said Spike

“Who is this AJ, you guys are talking about,” asked Twilight

“Oh, Applejack, she is my younger sister, she is about your age, maybe a bit older,” said Big Mac

This made the girls freeze in place

“A girl! Spike’ has been helping another girl?!” said Sunset

“Wonder why I’ve never met her?” said Twilight

“A new friend, I must introduce myself… and make sure she stays away from my dragon,” said Pinkie

“So, another girl, I hope she knows her place, Spike is mine and mine alone,” said Rarity

“I wonder if she also likes Spike… I wouldn’t mind sharing him… as long as I can be his head wife,” said Fluttershy

“Ok, that’s that… what’s up with you gals?” asked Rainbow Dash

“Oh nothing, we were just talking about Big Mac’s sister,” said Pinkie

“Oh, Ms. Goodie-two-boots I presume,” said Rainbow Dash

“Wait, you know her?” asked Sunset

“Oh yeah, me and Spike, have helped in their farm before, and so far I have defeated her in everything,” said Rainbow Dash

“Except bucking Apples,” said Spike

“You traitor,” said Rainbow Dash “So, what did she do?”

“Oh, nothing, just that we never see her,” said Twilight

“She runs the apple shop in the market, you’ve had to see her at least once,” said Rainbow Dash

“Now that you mention it… I think we have,” said Rarity

But as soon as the image of Applejack came to their minds, they once again turn pail

“Anyway, I’ll see you all tomorrow at Sweetapple acres at first light, happy trails,” said Big Mac

MINUTES LATER, NEAR SWEET APPLE ACRES

“So, is it done?” asked a female silhouette

“Yeah, the girls agreed to help us,” said Big Mac

“Alright, this is your chance… don’t blow it,” said another female silhouette

“Trust me, I won’t, he will be mine,” said the other female Silhouette

THE NEXT MORNING

"Morning girls, a pleasure to meet you at last," said a male voice

"Good morning Mr…" said Twilight

"Bright Mac and this is my wife Pear Butter," said Bright Mac

"Nice to meet you," said Pear Butter

"Hi my name is Twilight Sparkle ,"

"Sunset Shimmer,"

"Rarity Belle, pleasure"

"Fluttershy, it's… a… a pleasure,"

"Well hello, Dearies, my name is Granny Smith, it's nice to finally meet you, and of course it's good to see you again Spike, Rainbow Dash," said an old female voice

"Granny Smith, good morning to you," said Spike

"Hello everyone!" Said a young female voice

"Oh, hello, Applebloom, are you, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo going to hang out today?" Asked Rarity

"No, not today, I have a lot of chores to do, but tomorrow yes," said the young girl

"Well, it's time to go, come on now," said Bright Mac

"See you in 2 weeks," said Pear Butter

"Bye, be careful," said Granny Smith said as the caravan of Pick up trucks left

"Ok, Spike, follow me," said Big Mac

Spike followed Big Mac to the barn

"Well hello there Spike," said a female voice

"Oh, Applejack, good morning… to...you," said Spike as he turned to face her

Applejack was jogging towards him, she was wearing her typical cowboy boots, but her outfit was different, she was wearing jean short shorts instead of her regular jeans, and an orange button up shirt tied just under her chest, showing off her abs and accentuating her breasts, which Spike tried not to stare at.

"Good to see you, glad you could join us for a little hard labor," she said

"Yeah, don't mention it," said Spike

"This is almost too easy, I'll have Spike in my bed by tomorrow if this continues… ok step 2 impress him with my abilities, " said Applejack

"Ok Spike, you see those crates? Mind loading them into the Truck, but be very careful, they contain the apple cider for this season," said Granny Smith

"Sure," said Spike getting to work

"As for you three, go and buck some apples," said Granny Smith

"Yes Granny," they all said and left

NEAR THE APPLE ORCHARD

"Say, AJ, why do you want to impress Spike so bad?" Asked Applebloom

"Well… he's the nicest, hottest, kindest guy I've ever met, I still remember the first time we met," said AJ as she started to remember.

3 MONTHS AGO

Spike was walking near the marketplace, ready for some shopping.

"Ok, so, Twilight needs a new book, figures, Rarity needs me to get her a few hair products, Sunset wants strings for her guitar, even though I offered her some of mine, Fluttershy needs animal food, she wasn't very specific, and Pinkie and Dash are ok. I hope everything is fine all the way in Manechester, still I'd prefer this alone time, than another Underwear/swimsuit shopping day with Rarity, she really likes teasing me," said Spike. He continued walking up the small sloop that led to the market.

"LOOK OUT! MY WAGON IS LOSE!" screamed a female voice

Spike quickly turned around and noticed a wagon running loose down the slope, heading straight for a couple of kids.

He quickly ran after it, jumping in front of the wagon, which was surprisingly heavy; Spike had to anchor his feet to the floor as hard as he could to stop the wagon.

The wagon actually dragged Spike for about 50 Ft. before he was finally able to stop it, almost hitting the kids that were frozen in place due to the fear.

“You kids ok?” asked Spike

“Ye..yes, thank you sir,” said the girl

“You're welcome,” said Spike

“Wow, mister, you’re really strong!” said one of the boys

“Well, that’s cause I eat my veggies and get a good night sleep,” said Spike

“Really, eating veggies and sleep give you strength?” asked the other boy

“Yup, but you also have to do some exercise as well… in other words, live a healthy life,” said Spike

“Cool, I want to grow up to be as strong as you,” said one of the boys before they all ran off

"Thanks, that was mighty terrifying, I mean, if my wagon had hit any of the kids…," said the female owner of the wagon as she ran up to Spike

"Well, thank God it didn't come to that," said Spike

"Nice to meet you, my name is Applejack," said the woman

"Spike, pleasure is all mine," he said as he shook her hand

"Well, Spike, you are mighty strong I the leg department," said Applejack

"Thanks, years of training," said Spike

"Training for what?" Asked Applejack

"Not important… so, what caused the whole "fugitive wagon" incident?" Asked Spike

"I was heading to my usual place in the market to sell my goods, when all of a sudden the handles broke; now, I know this wagon is heavy so it has an emergency brake system but it seems that it failed too," said Applejack

"You don't say? Mind if I have a look?" Said Spike

"Not at all, go ahead," said Applejack

Spike then headed over to where the handles were and noticed that they had been sawed off and placed back again using cheap glue.

"That's odd," said Spike

"Found anything?" Asked Applejack

"Let me check one more thing," said Spike

He then slided underneath the wagon and noticed that the brake system had been cut off and hidden from sight using scotch tape.

"Applejack, are you the only one that uses this wagon?" Asked Spike

"Yes… why?" She asked

"Look at the handles, they were sawed off and placed back with cheap glue," said Spike

Applejack as she was told and was surprised by what she saw

"You're right… damn that little sister of mine, this must be one of her old pranks," said Applejack getting angry

"At first I thought something like that too, but then came the break issue… I doubt your sister knows much about mechanics," said Spike

"She doesn't why?" Asked Applejack

"The brakes were cut off and the someone used scotch tape to hide it," said Spike

"You're saying someone wanted to hurt me?" said Applejack

"That or ruin your image, imagine if this wagon had hit one of the kids, the parents could sue you, and that would've ruined your business," said Spike

"My God, thanks Spike, I must be more careful now, seems like someone wants me out of business," said Applejack

"Well, if you need help, I can give you a hand getting this up there," said Spike

"You would? That be mighty nice of ya," said Applejack as both she and Spike pulled and pushed the wagon up towards the market

SOMEWHERE NEARBY

"So, did it work?" Said a figure

"Yes and no" said another

"What?" Said the first figure

"The trap worked and the wagon fell apart and almost killed a couple of kids, but…" said another figure

"But what?" Said the first

"Some guy came out of nowhere and stopped it, by the looks of him, he was an adventurer from the guild," said another figure

"Damn those meddling adventurers, the bosses are not going to be happy about this," said the first one.

BACK TO THE PRESENT

"Spike came every day to make me company after that incident, sometimes he would even help me for free… HA, we even asked him to come to the farm and help before, remember, he helped you out the first day he came," said Applejack as she bucked another tree making the apples fall to the bucket below.

“Yeah, I remember that, and I have to admit that he is a really nice person, but I still don’t understand what made you fall for him,” said Applebloom

“Well… at first I only saw him as a very good friend, but then…” Applejack began

ONE MONTH AGO

Applejack was finishing closing her market stand after a long day of hard work

“My, oh my, that was one hard day of work...possibly because I stayed 5 extra hours but… I’m sure no one will mind me bring an extra $1000, even though it’s almost midnight,” she said as she loaded the last part of her stand into the her new wagon

Unknown to her 3 figures were coming towards her rather quickly and menacingly

After a few more seconds Applejack heard the footsteps behind her

“Oh, so sorry, but I’m closed-” she said before a large fist punched her in her stomach

“Well, too bad… for you,” said one of the figures as they dragged a semi-conscious Applejack towards a dark alley.

Ones there they threw her against a wall, allowing her conscious to return but leaving her disorientated

“Wha… what do you want… from me?’ she asked trying to compose herself

“We?... nothing, now our employer… let’s just say, you’re a nuisance, and we were tasked to eliminate you,” said the leader of the group

“So… that’s what you are, huh… cowards who attack… a defenceless woman in the street, impressive,” Applejack said trying to sound tough and hide her fear

“SHUT UP!!!” said the leader as he slapped Applejack in her face causing her to spit blood

“Is… is that all… you’ve got?” Applejack taunted again

The leader of the group got furious and smacked Applejack again across the face causing her to fall to lay down on the floor.

“You know, I was just going to punch you half to death and leave you like a fucking vegetable, but now… I think this bitch needs to be taught a lesson… wouldn’t you agree boys?” said the leader as he turned to face his accomplices

“You’re right, she needs to learn to shut her smart-ass mouth,” said one of them

“Glad to hear you agree,” said the leader as her grabbed Applejack’s dress and ripped it off, followed by her underwear

“What… what are you doing?” Applejack managed to say

“You’ll find out soon enough,” he said as he removed his pants and underwear, exposing his member to her.

“I’m I supposed to see something?” Applejack said taunting the leader again

“Let’s see if you keep making those comments after I finish with you,” he said as he moved forward.

He was about to make entry into her marehood when

“HEY!! What’s going on over there?” came a male voice

All of the goons turned and saw Spike standing at the entrance of the alleyway

“Boss, it’s the guy from 2 months ago,” said the other figure

“I see… HEY BUDDY, LET ME GIVE YOU SOME ADVICE… MOVE ON,” said the leader

“NO!!!, I WANT TO KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON,” Spike said

“NONE OF YOUR DAMN BUSINESS, YOU FUCKING LIZARD,” said the boss

The second he said that, Spike went silent

Applejack turned and saw Spike, but for whatever reason he didn’t look at her, his face was glued to the floor

“Spike… please, don’t leave me!” thought Applejack

BANG BANG

Was all that was heard in the nearby empty and previously silent streets

At first everyone was confused, where did the shot come from, then they turned and looked at Spike who was holding a 45MM gun in his left hand.

Seconds later the leader of the group knelt down in pain holding his crotch as a pool of blood began to form beneath him.

Everyone then turned to look at Spike as he began to walk towards the leader until he was right in front of him

The leader looked up and saw the barrel of the gun pointed right at him, then he looked at Spike and noticed that his eyes weren’t normal, he looked… possessed

“I’m a dragon, not a lizard,” said Spike as he pulled the trigger killing the leader of the group

Spike then turned to the remaining 2 goons and said

“Tell your clients that, next time, those bullets will be for them,”

They both then began running away as Spike helps Applejack up and covered her with his jacket

“Thanks,” she said

“Applejack, how many people do you need to send a message?” asked Spike

“Ah… one?” said Applejack

“Hmm,” said Spike as he pointed his gun and fired one more round, killing another of the goons “I agree… and disagree with you Applejack… I think that one or two people can send a message,” said Spike as he shoved his hand into his backpack and pulled out some shorts and gave them to Applejack

Applejack took them and then looked at Spike

“What, I don’t have anything else, plus, I doubt it’s comfortable to be naked in this cold weather,” Spike said

Applejack looked at them in a weird way and Spike said

“Relax, they are clean, I always carry an extra pair of clothes in case of an emergency,” said Spike

“Why?” asked Applejack

“Long story, don’t wanna talk about it,” said Spike as he turned around

“Am I right to assume that your “Emergency kit” contains undergarments?” said Applejack

“Yes… yes they do, but due to obvious reasons I don’t think it’s a good idea to hand them over,” said Spike

“True… thanks,” said Applejack as she put the short on and grabbed her ripped clothes

“So what are you going to do with those?” asked Spike as he turned to face her

“Throw them in the garbage, what else,” said Applejack

“Well, you can give them to my friend Rarity, she can fix any type of garment in the blink of an eye… literally,” said Spike

“Nah, this skirt is very old, and I was planning to get rid of it anyway… but, a better question is, what are YOU doing here?” said Applejack

“I was… uhm… out for a jog and...uhm… heard the scafell, so I decided to help,” said Spike

Applejack looked at Spike and said

“You, sir, are the worst liar I’ve ever met.” she said giving Spike a light punch on his shoulder

“What makes you think I’m lying?” said Spike

“The fact that no normal person goes for a Jog at midnight, especially carrying a 45 strapped to their waist, and trust me, I know,” said Applejack

Spike, defeated, decided to come clean

“Ok, you got me, I was… bounty hunting,” said Spike

“Bounty… You a bounty hunter?” said Applejack in disbelief

“Yeah, I mean, with Twilight’s party getting bigger and better, I’m needed less and less, so, I had to find a way to pay the bills,” said Spike as he handed Applejack a bounty with the leaders picture and a monetary amount on it

“Gregor the terror, age 38, wanted DEAD, reward $1,000,000, known for being one of the heads of the Black stallion crime organization,” Applejack read

“Yup, this guy was really a piece of shit,” said Spike as he removed the blood covered name tag from the corps

“What about the other one?” asked Applejack

“No clue, just thought I’d send a message,” said Spike

“Which was?” asked Applejack

“The result of sabotage,” said Spike

“I don’t get it?” said Applejack

“He was the one that caused the accident a few months back,” Spike explained as he went over and removed the name tag on him “Nick Slick”, funny name, don’t you think?” he finished

“Son of a bitch” said Applejack as she met up with Spike

“Yeah… anyway, come on, I’ll help you get home, Granny Smith must be worried,” said Spike.

30 MINUTES LATER

“So, all this time, you’ve been investigating my case?” said Applejack

“Yeah, ever since the first time I met you and learned all of this, I felt… I don’t know… worried, I know what it feels like for someone to try and destroy your reputation, and so…” said Spike

“You went out of your way to protect me,” said Applejack

“Yes, and I was actually on my way to tell you what I had discovered when I stumbled upon the scene,” said Spike

“And thank God you did…” said Applejack

“Yeah, if something would’ve happened to you… I wouldn't have forgiven myself,” said Spike

“Wow, he just so nice, I can’t believe he has been trying to protect me all this time, like if he was a guarding angel,” Applejack thought

“Applejack… listen, I’ll be out of town for a few days, starting tomorrow… but, I’m worried for your safety, I know who these guys were working for, and…” Spike said

“It’s ok, sugarcube, I can take care of myself, you go on your mission and concentrate on coming back,” said Applejack “I’ve never met someone who was this worried about me… is he crushing on me?”

“If you say so… hey, when I come back, maybe you and I can go for a coffee or something,” said Spike

“Sure,” said Applejack “Is he really asking me out on a date?”

“Well, Applejack, here we are Sweet Apple Acres,” said Spike

“That’s right sugarcube, thanks… for everything,” said Applejack

“You’re welcome… and please, take care of yourself, I mean it, I don’t trust these guys,” said Spike

“I will, don’t worry about it,” Applejack said as she gave Spike a kiss on the cheek, making him blush “Oh, he looks mighty adorable with that blush,”

“Well… I… Uhm… I have to go… and pack, goodnight!” said Spike as he rushed away

“Ha, he really is a cutie,” thought Applejack as she entered the farm

BACK TO THE PRESENT

“And that’s when I fell in love with him,” said Applejack

“Wow, he saved you from some brutes like if you were a princess, how romantic,” said Applebloom

“He did, didn’t he,” said Applejack with a goofy smile as she imagined herself as a princess and Spike as a prince

“But, that didn’t answer my original question, why do you want to seduce him?” asked Applebloom again.

“Well, after that I did develop a small crush on him, but after I told Ma, Pa, about what happened they wanted to go thank him and meet him, and that’s where it all happened,” Applejack continued

THAT DAY

“So, this Spike guy, is he like your boyfriend?” asked Bright Mac

“Oh no, Dad, he is just a great friend,” Applejack said turning red

“You know, I was surprised when Granny Smith said that Spike had worked at the farm before, I don’t remember seeing him,” said Pear Butter

“Well, he helped us out when you went to Las Pegasus for the show, so it’s kind of normal that you haven’t met him,” said Applejack

A few minutes later, Applejack and her parents arrived at the gates of the city, the major departure point for most of the guild’s adventures.

“Do you see him?” asked Pear Butter

“No… I don’t… Oh, there he is! The dragon with the sniper rifle in his back and who is currently checking the motorcycle,” said Applejack

“Dear, “Dragon” was enough of a description, I believe he is the only dragon that belongs to the guild,” said Bright Mac as they all began to walk closer to Spike, they suddenly froze when a certain rainbow haired pegasus threw herself at him.

“Ray, get off!” said Spike annoyed

“Why? I don’t mind the contact,” RD said as she pressed her chest harder into Spike’s back

“Well, unlike you, I have a bike to prepare,” said Spike

“Sure,” RD said in a sarcastic way getting off of him

“So, what do you want?” asked Spike

“I came to inform you that, after much deliberation, I have been asked to ride with you on our way to Coltchester,” said Rainbow Dash

“How’bout, no,” said Spike

“What? Why not?” asked RD

“Let’s see… You tend to get distracted easily, your always trying to do some sort of Daredevil crap, get into road rage incidents faster than the average Joe, and, most importantly, I don’t want you to crash my bike… again, the paper work for the insurance gives me nightmares,” said Spike

“Meanie, and here I was hoping to have some fun on our way there,” said RD

“For the love of God Dash, stop acting like Rarity’s perverted reflexion!” said Spike

“AHA, so you do notice,” said RD

“ARGH!!!!” was all Spike said

NEARBY

“So, is that girl his girlfriend?” asked Bright Mac

“She is a girl and a friend, but she isn’t his girlfriend… Like hell would I allow it,” said Applejack jealous, the last part barely louder than a whisper.

Unfortunately her mother heard it

“I see, well, let’s go say hi, shall we,” said Pear Butter as they walked towards the 2 arguing friends.

“I won’t repeat myself,” said Spike

“And I’m not going to let you win,” said RD

“Hi there Spike,” said Applejack wearing a fake smile on her face

“Oh, hey Applejack, what are you doing here?” asked Spike as he saw Applejack

“Oh, just came to see you off, you know, like us CLOSE friends do,” said Applejack getting closer to him and invading his personal space

“Oh, I see,” said Spike getting nervous

“Spike? What is Ms. Perfect Boots talking about?” asked RD

“Uhm,” was all Spike could say

“None of your business… oh, by the way Spike, this are my parents, Bright Mac and Pear Butter, they wanted to meet you, you know, after what happened last night,” said Applejack

“What happened last night?” asked RD as she hugged Spike closer to her

“I, kind of, save her life from a group of goons who were trying to kill her,” said Spike

“Of course you did,” said RD facepalming herself

“And we can’t be anymore grateful, hi, as you know I’m AJ’s dad, Bright Mac at your service,” said AJ’s dad giving Spike a hard handshake

“Nice to meet you,” said Spike as he felt his hand bones being crushed

“Honey, I think you’re going to break his hand,” said Pear Butter

“Oh, sorry,” said Bright Mac letting go

“No problem,” said Spike as he rubbed his aching hand

“Thanks for saving my daughter,” said Pear Butter as she hugged Spike

“No problem, that’s what friends are for,” said Spike

“So, I hear you’re off to Coltchester,” said Applejack

“Yeah, I told you last night,” said Spike

“Wait, last night?... Oh yeah, the rescue situation,” said RD

“Anyway, when are you coming back, son?” asked Bright Mac

“2, 3 weeks,” said RD

“3 weeks?” said Applejack

“Yup, 3 weeks of hard work,” said RD as she hugged Spike’s right arm

“Well, I surely hope everything will work out for you… all of you,” said Applejack as she hugged Spike’s other arm making eye contact with Rainbow Dash

“You’re getting awfully close to my Spike, girl,” RD said with her eyes

“I won’t let you have him, girl!” Applejack answered back with a stare

“Ok, so, we have to get going,” said Spike as he broke free of the hug and stare war.

“Right, right, sorry,” said Applejack as she let go of Spike just like RD did.

“Well, it was nice meeting you son, come down to the farm whenever you want,” said Bright Mac

“Sure, thanks,” said Spike

“Well, we better get back to work, and let you leave for yours,” said Bright Mac

“Nice to meet you again,” said Pear Butter

“Likewise,” Both Spike and RD said

“Oh, Spike, before you leave…” said Applejack before kissing Spike on the cheek again, causing to clam up and turn red.

Rainbow Dash’s jaw dropped in surprise

“For luck,” she said as she walked away swaying her hips, Spike’s eyes glued to her

“Hey Spike, put your eyes back into the suckets and finish up,” said Rainbow Dash as she left.

BACK TO THE PRESENT

“...And that was 2 and a half weeks ago, then mom and I decided to take action to conquer Spike’s heart, and now we are down to the final steps of the plan,” said Applejack

“So, for the plan to be completed when he what… impregnates you?” said Applebloom

Her comment made Applejack go completely red

“No… it wouldn’t… He… I… I mean… I don’t mind the thought but…” was all Applejack managed to say

“Well, good luck with that sis,” said Applebloom

“What do you mean “Good luck”?” asked Applejack

“Trust me when I tell you this, you aren’t the only girl that has something for Spike,” she said

“What?” said Applejack

“Yup, apart of you and Rainbow Dash, his half sister Twilight, his friend Sunset Shimmer, Pinkie Pie, the fashion queen Rarity, and the oversized breast girl Fluttershy, all seem to have the hots for your dragon,” said Applebloom

“Really?” said Applejack

“Yeah, and I have to admit, from what I’ve seen, he and Rarity as really, REALLY, close,” said Applebloom

“Will see about that,” said Applejack as she got back to work.

A FEW HOURS LATER

The work on the farm had gone as smoothly as you can imagine… if you take into consideration the fact that you had a love-struck Applejack working with you.

Throughout the whole day, she had been making various silly mistakes, she had accidentally mixed the new cider crates with apple juice crates, which had Big Mac and Spike redoing the whole thing again… Later, she bucked the apple trees that had already been harvested, causing confusion and delays, as many of the workers had to leave their current chores to make up for her mishaps… and right before the day ended, she mistook the water crates with the alcohol crates and almost caused the whole work force to fall flat on their faces drunk, if it wasn't for Spike and Big Mac, the farm would've list almost $1,000,000 for the 3 hours that it took the alcohol to leave their bodies.

And with that the day came to a close with the workers leaving for their homes and families.

Spike had been given the option to stay at the farm, but, thinking that he was imposing too much, decided to hop on his bike and head back home.

Back at the farm, Big Mac couldn't even wait for dinner to be ready, before falling face first into the couch and falling asleep instantly.

Applebloom was also pooped, she had a quick meal and headed off to her room and fell asleep, without even changing her clothes.

That left Applejack and Pear Butter all alone in the house.

"Is it safe for me to assume that your mishaps today were supposed to be you impressing Spike?" Asked Pear Butter sarcastically

"I… I don't know whatever you mean mother," said Applejack as she continued to scarf her dinner down like if it was her last meal.

"Come on, Applejack, I'm your mother, and I know when you are lying… not to mention, the “mistakes” happened, when you were assigned a job near Spike, so it’s easy to add the dots,” said Pear Butter

Before Applejack could answer back, another voice appeared and startled the 2 of them

“So, that’s the reason you’ve been so distracted,” came Granny Smith’s voice as she entered the kitchen

“GRANNY!!!” said Applejack as she jumped up in surprise, almost tipping the table over

“Mom, don’t do that,” said Pear Butter

“Hehe, sorry kids, old habits die hard,” said Granny Smith as she walked over to the table and took a seat.

“What do you mean “Old Habits”?” asked Applejack

“Oh… that… well, back during my younger days, specially when I was an adventurer, I used to work as a spy… so, that’s what I meant,” said Granny Smith

“Wait! You were a Spy?!” said Applejack

“Oh, yeah, and a damn good one, never got caught… going back to your little situation, you better feel me in,” said Granny Smith

Applejack and Pear Butter told her everything, from how Applejack and Spike first met, to when he saved her life, and even the reason of why they were doing what they were doing, that also included, even the minor, details.

After they were done explaining, Granny Smith remained silent for a few seconds.

“Any thoughts mom?” asked Pear Butter

“Well… first of all, I don’t know why you didn’t mention the incident with the street gang, I will forever be in dept with Spike… as for your plan… I think it’s somewhat stupid,” said Granny Smith

Both Pear Butter and Applejack looked at her in surprise

“What do you mean by that?” asked Applejack

“If Spike is attracted to you, which seems possible, you only have to focus on being yourself. He saved the real you, not the slutty, pervy, clumsy you who is trying to get in his pants… trust me deary, the only men that like that type of women, are up to no good; if you continue to act this way, you’ll scare him away and lose your chance… so, come tomorrow, be yourself, show him your skills, your perks, that you are dependable… that’s what a good wife is,” said Granny Smith

Applejack, however, was frozen in place, her face red, and her mouth formed into a goofy smile, while the word “Bride” echoed in her brain over and over again

“What’s up with her?” asked Granny Smith

“One of two possibilities… nope, she’s just love-struck,” said Pear Butter

“And what is the other possibility?” asked Granny Smith

“I prefer not saying it outloud,” said Pear Butter

“Anyway… Applejack, quit dreaming, go to bed and rest, since tomorrow is your second chance to impress Spike, and don’t forget… he won’t be here forever, you only have 9 days, removing weekend, to get close and personal with him before his friends return,” said Granny Smith as Applejack came out of her trance.

She nodded and headed off to her room, just to be stopped by Granny Smith’s words

“And for the record… I would prefer if you wait a couple more years to give me great grandchildren, I don’t want to feel so old at 63,” she said

Applejack, again turned red and made a run for her room

“Well, that was odd, I didn’t get the chance to wish her sweet dreams,” said Granny Smith

“Oh, trust me mom… you did, you did,” said Pear Butter as she cleaned the table and began to wash the dishes.

THE NEXT MORNING

“MORNIN’ SPIKE!!! Ready to work?” asked Big Mac as Spike dismounted his bike

“Sure, it’s time to make my body sore again,” said Spike

Just then Applejack came up to Spike

“Actually Spike, I was wondering if you would like to be my hus… WORK PARTNER! From here on, I mean, we should even the teams out a bit… we can have you boys having all the fun, I’m I right?” said Applejack

“Ok,” said Spike as he got ready to work

“Patience, Applejack, patience, remember what Granny Smith said,” she thought as she guided Spike to their work area.

A FEW DAYS LATER

It had been 2 full weeks of work at Sweet Apple Acres, and during this time, Applejack and Spike had gotten closer, than even they imagined… it was like they had this amazing chemistry between the 2 of them.

It first began when Spike and Applejack discovered that they had the same taste in music, even loved the same band, and albums, they shared an interest in horror and suspense films, liked almost the same food, and loved a very particular type of cyder called, Zap Cider.

Then it was when they talked, Spike began a sentence and Applejack finished it, and vice versa.

And finally, it came down to work, they were so coordinated when working, to the point that they finished all of their chores before lunch time.

Everyone was impressed by this, more so, Applejack herself, she had finally found her other half.

Spike, on the other hand, hadn’t even realized her feelings for him, were those of love, as he saw here as a great friend.

It is now late in the afternoon, almost sundown, and everyone in Sweet Apple Acres were ready to call it a day.

As for Spike and Applejack, they had finished working and were now taking a breather talking about anything that came to mind

“... and that day Twilight discovered why you don’t fall asleep near bushes that you can’t identify as poison Ivy,” said Spike making Applejack chuckle

“You love adventuring, don’t you?” she said

“I can’t say I hate it, but I’m not crazy over it… I’m more of a “Salaryman” type of person… Call me boring, but… I think it’s best for me,” said Spike

“But why? You have the chance of heading out of town in awesome adventures whenever you want, I would love to have that freedom,” said Applejack

“Why don’t you ask for it? I mean, you are…?” said Spike

“16, I’m turning 17 in a month,” said Applejack

“Well, in my book, that makes you an adult,” said Spike

“You know, you’re right, I’ll tell my family of it,” said Applejack

“I respect that decision,” said Spike

After he said this a moment of silence fell upon them, their eyes glued to each other, Applejack then began to lean forward, but stopped when she remembered something

“Hey, when you said “It’s best for you”, what did you mean?”

Spike remained silent for a few seconds, and was about to answer when one of the workers ran up to them.

“Spike, Applejack!!! Thank God I found you,” said the worker

“Green Hoof, what’s wrong?” asked Applejack

“We have trouble back at the farmhouse!” he said

“What is the situation?” asked Spike

“Various bikes, and trucks are headed for it, they will arrive at any second,” said Green Hoof

“We better head back to the farm, NOW!!” said Applejack as she and Green Hoof ran back to the farm

“About time, you idiots showed your ugly faces,” thought Spike as he began to run towards the farmhouse

When they arrived, they found everyone hiding inside the farm house, trying to come up with the reason for the visit of these people.

“Is it another offensive?” asked a worker

“Don’t think so, if that was the case they would’ve come when my husband and the sentinels were here,” said Pear Butter

“So then, what do they want?” asked Granny Smith

“To send a message,” said Spike catching everyone’s attention

“What do you mean?” asked Pear Butter

“I believe everyone here knows of Applejack’s and my incident with this people right?” said Spike making everyone nod

“Well, during that incident, I killed 2 of their “Best” men, but, they assume that I am affiliated to Sweet Apple Acres, so they came here to “teach us” a lesson,” said Spike

When he said this, everyone went silent

“Are they going to kill us?” asked one of the female workers, concerned with not seeing her kids again

“If we let them,” said Spike

This made everyone look at him

“I know that everyone here knows how to handle a gun or weapon, I’m I right?” he asked, as everyone nodded “Then this is what we are going to do…”

A FEW MINUTES LATER

Various bikes and 2 4x4 trucks stopped at the gate of Sweet Apple Acres, and their occupants quickly dismounted and stood on stand by, as their leader walked up to the gate and screamed

“WE KNOW YOU ARE IN THERE! COME OUT NOW AND FACE THE CONSEQUENCES OF YOUR ACTIONS! OR WE’LL GO IN AND KILL YOU ALL!!”

A few seconds past and nobody came out, this angered the boss even more

“Get you weapons ready, we are going hunting,” whispered the boss to the rest of his crew

“IF THAT’S HOW YOU WANT IT!!!!” he screamed and kicked the gate open

The second he did that, Spike kicked the farmhouse door open, surprising the gang

“Sorry about the wait, had to finish doing something,” said Spike as he walked up to them

“Are you the person in charge?” asked the boss

“What makes you think I am?” asked Spike

His cocky attitude, angered the boss

“It’s him! He’s the one that killed Nick and Gregor,” said the goon that Spike aloud to get away

“AH, so we have our target,” said the boss as he raised his gun up to Spike’s head

He was about to pull the trigger, when Spike grabbed the gun’s barrel and melted it, rendering it useless.

This scared and angered the boss even more, as he took out a dagger, and said “I’M GONNA KILL YOU, YOU MOTHERFUCKING LIZARD!!!!” as he lunged himself at Spike.

Spike however, quickly and skillfully evaded the attack, disarming the boss and placing him on a chokehold.

“Don’t ever call me a lizard, again!” he whispered before turning towards the rest of the gang

“I knew that my message was going to reach you, eventually… but, now that the 2 of you are down here, why don’t you grow a pair and face me face to face… or is it true that you’re actually chickens,” said Spike

The rest of the gang remained in place, no one moved a muscle, just like, no one said a word.

“Hypothesis confirmed,” said Spike in a mocking voice

As he said this, the doors of the trucks flew open, and out came none other than, Flim and Flam.

“Glad the 2 of you still have balls, even if they are the size of a nut,” said Spike

“Yeah, keep talking, ever word is one more bullet,” said Flim

“Is that the best you can do in the “Intimidation” area, HA! No wonder the 2 of you are still virgins,” said Spike mocking them

Flim and Flam got even angrier by that comment, and they began to rush up to where Spike was

“Ah, ah, I wouldn’t cross that gate line if I was you, you’ll regret it,” said Spike

“And who is going to stop us?” asked Flim

“Yeah, you and what army?” mocked Flam as the 2 of them got near to the gate

“Oh, I don’t know, maybe… this army?!” said Spike

As on queue, all of the workers of the farm appeared out of thin air, surrounding Flim, Flam, and their gang, pointing guns and rifles at them.

Flim and Flam stopped dead on their tracks

“What should we do?” whispered Flim

“They have us surrounded, we need to buy sometime,” whispered Flam

“I know the 2 of you are Wannabe businessmen, so, let’s talk business,” said Spike

“Ok, we’re listening,” said Flam

“This is my offer, leave now, leave town, and never come back,” said Spike

“And if we don’t?” said Flim in a threatening way

“Then I can’t guarantee you that you’ll live,” said Spike as his hold on the gang’s boss got stronger

Flim and Flam looked at each other and looked back at Spike

“Well, that is a nice offer,” said Flim

“But, we have a counter offer,” said Flam

“Let’s hear it then,” said Spike

“You pay for the murders, and we leave the people of Sweet Apple Acres alone, for today,” said Flim

Sensing their ulterior motifs, Spike decided to play one last card

“That’s all? And I’ll have your word that you’ll keep that promise?” said Spike

“Of course, we are businessmen after all,” said Flam

Unknown to them, Granny Smith had used her spying abilities and had placed a mirror right behind the 2 of them, allowing Spike to look at Flim crossing his fingers

“So, what do you say?” said Flam as he extended his hand forward, enticing Spike to walk up to them and shake it.

Spike decided to continue the show and began walking up to the gate, always keeping an eye on Flim and Flam, as Flim made a reach for his gun, strapped to his waistband behind his back.

When Spike was about 3 feet away from them he stopped

“Do you really think I trust you?” said Spike

This caught them off guard

“You see, I knew you were going to pull a “Under the table” stunt on me, so, Granny Smith was quiet enough to place a mirror right behind you…” said Spike, making them turn and see the mirror “... Plus I’m good at ready someone’s character, I knew you were lying to me this whole time, you weren’t going to keep your word, you were going to kill me and then kill the Apple family for the ownership of the farm,” said Spike

Flim and Flam, looked at each other, in surprise and then back at Spike

“Well, no point in hiding it,” said Flam

“We never keep our word,” said Flim as he took out his gun

“Then neither will I,” said Spike as he grabbed the bosses neck and broke it, killing him instantly

With that, Flim and Flam, shot at Spike, just for him to dodge every bullet, grab his gun, and expertly hit their guns causing them to drop them

When they turned and noticed the gang just standing idly by, they got angry

“WELL, ARE YOU FUCKERS WAITING FOR AN INVITATION?! SHOT THEM, SHOT THEM DOWN!!!” screamed Flim and Flam

“You 2 know nothing about street politics, do you?” Said Spike catching their attention “I killed their boss… actually, the 2 bosses, so now, they don;t have choice but to follow my commands,”

At the mention of that, the farm workers came up to the group and aimed their guns at Flim and Flam

“My offer is still standing, if you want it,” said Spike

Flim and Flam looked at each other again, and got onto one of the nearby trucks and drove away.

Spike then turned to the gang members

“As for all of you… head to the police station,” said Spike

This made the feel nervous

“Don’t worry, if you turn yourselves in, they are more than likely to let you go with just a fine, which you can pay, by working for the guild, they accept anyone, from the purest being, to the worst convict with a lengthy history, turn your lives around… if not, I will personally hunt you down,” said Spike

With that all of them rushed away in their bikes and remaining truck.

As soon as they were out of sight, everyone started to cheer and celebrate the victory

“Spike, that was awesome,” said Applejack as she walked up to him

“Yeah, I’ve never seen someone so afraid as those 2,” said Pear Butter

“You think they’ll return?” asked a worker

“Doubt it, they’re hard headed, not stupid,” said Spike

“Well done, sonny,” said Granny Smith as she walked up to him

“Thanks,” Spike answered back

“Well, then, everyone can go home, and take tomorrow off,” said Granny Smith

“Are you sure?” said one of the workers

“Of course, it’s not like we can’t take care of a few chores by ourselves,” said Granny Smith

“Not to mention, various workers are coming back tomorrow,” said Pearl Butter

After reassuring the workers that it was ok, they left, leaving only, Granny Smith, Pear Butter, Spike, Applebloom, and Big Mac on the farm

“Well, it’s time for me to head home,” said Spike

“Oh, no, deary, we all have to have a talk,” said Granny Smith as Big Mac grabbed Spike by the arm and made him walk into the house

“What’s going on?” whispered Spike

“I have no idea, but I was told to do this by Granny Smith,” Big Mac answered

He then sat Spike down in the living, as everyone else entered the house

“Spike… I know, you might be confused about what is going on, but don’t fret, you have done nothing wrong,” said Granny Smith

“Uff, good, I thought I was in trouble,” said Spike

“The reason why we have you here today is… to thank you, you saved Applejack various times already, and now, you saved everyone in the farm, not to mention you were a valuable addition, although temporally, to our crew,” said Granny Smith

“Well, it was job, I had to give a 100% of me to make it worth it,” said Spike

Pear Butter and Granny Smith looked at each other and nodded

“Well, glad to hear that, but I must ask, did you enjoy working with Applejack?” asked Granny Smith

“Of course, she is a great friend, and to be honest, I felt we had a great chemistry, not to mention, she is a great company to have… the man or woman that marries here will be really lucky,” said Spike

“So, you are saying that, she is the proper life partner?” said Granny Smith

Spike sensed that there was a double meaning to the question, but he didn’t want to be insensitive

“Of course,” he said

“Then it’s settled,” said Granny Smith

“What is?” asked Spike

“Your engagement to Applejack,” said Granny Smith with a smile

Spike looked at them and said “WHAT?!!!!”

“Yeah, you have demonstrated to be a capable husband, so, it’s just natural,” said Granny Smith

“Wait, hang on a minute, doesn’t she get a say in this?” asked Spike

“Oh, she’s been very vocal about it,” said Pear Butter

Spike looked at Applejack who turned red and looked away, he then turned back to face at Granny Smith and company

“Listen, I thank you for the consideration… but I know for a fact that , I’m not ready for this type of commitment, yet, and I wouldn’t want to hurt her, do to me being immature,” said Spike

“I see, well, thanks for your honesty,” said Granny Smith

“Why don’t you guys spend some time together, go on adventures, grow your relationship, and even if, after all, you guys don’t think you are marriage material, then, we will respect your decision,” said Pear Butter

“Works for me,” said Granny Smith “What do you say?”

Spike looked at Applejack and then at everyone on the room, feeling the wait of his decision, Spike said

“If Applejack is ok with it,”

They all looked at her, and she nodded in agreement

“Ok, then, time to get you registered at the guild, come along then,” said Granny Smith pushing her out of the house.

A FEW HOURS LATER

“Applejack, age 16, height 6’0”, weight 50Kg, dexterity: right, adventurer type: tank/Warrior, Rank B, level 76… abilities: Crusher, physical enhancement, Bull… all of them are for raw strength, amazing… now please head into the armory and find your gear,” said Listy as Applejack did as she was told.

A few minutes later she and Hephaestus walked out of the armory

“Breastplate of Power, leggings of regeneration, Bracers of might, Boots of heavy armor, Sword of endurance, and Blazefury Twin guns,” said Hephaestus

“So, how do I look?” asked Applejack

“Like an adventurer,” said Spike

“Well, I believe it’s time that we head back home, have fun you 2, but not so much,” said Pear Butter as they left

“What now?” asked Applejack as she turned to look at Spike

“We, come up with an explanation to give to the girls,” said Spike with a worried face

THE NEXT MORNING

“THE 2 OF YOU WHAT?” they all said

“We were placed into an engagement relationship,” said Spike

All of the girls looked like they were about to kill the 2 of them

“So, this girl thinks she can steal Spike from me? She is wrong DEAD wrong,” thought Twilight

“Spike is mine, if you want him, you have to beat me,” thought Sunset Shimmer

“I wonder… will anyone find out if she is missing? Cause I’ll make her disappear,” thought Rarity making a murderous face

“I will not lose the race for Spike, we will be together,” thought Pinkie

“So, Ms. Goody-two-boots, thinks she can out run me, in the race for Spike’s heart, HA! She is late to the race, which I am winning,” thought Rainbow Dash

Fluttershy just looked at Applejack with anger in her eyes, not to mention, her face was green with envy.

“Relax, it’s just a temporal one, to see if Applejack and I are compatible for a long and prosperous marriage,” said Spike

“That’s true, so, I will be joining your squad for sometime to bond with Spike, and if, in the end, we decide not to get married and remain friends, my family will respect it,” said Applejack

“So, anyone is fair game to Spike’s heart! I won’t let anyone else win,” said all of the girls in their heads

“Hope we can get along,” said Applejack with a smile

“Of course,” said Twilight

“The more the merrier,” said Sunset

“Welcome to the team,” said Pinkie Pie

“Nice to make your acquaintance,” said Fluttershy

“Let’s see if you can keep up, Jack,” said Rainbow Dash

“No, let’s see if you can keep up,” said Applejack as they challenged each other with their eyes.

“Why do I think things are going to get worse from here on… at least for me?” said Spike as he looked at the girls before him.